Paez, a city resident, was hired in February 2009 at $11.45 an hour. He worked full time and received overtime at schools throughout the district, according to the report.

According to the civil suit, Paez hurt his shoulder on the job nearly two years ago. He underwent surgery and was out of work on medical leave and disability. The lawsuit staes Cofini told him the job would remain open for him when he recovered.

In August 2012, Paez returned to work with a letter from his doctor stating he was cleared of all restrictions and could resume his job, according to the report.

“However, Mr. Cofini informed Mr. Paez that he was not interested in restoring his job because Mr. Paez was ‘too old,’ ” mycentraljersey states, quoting the lawsuit.

The report states Paez asked if he was being fired because he was “too old.”

Cofini said he was not being fired and that he should just go “collect unemployment,” according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit seeks back pay and benefits for harm suffered as the result of age discrimination.